Tonight, like every Thursday night during the summer, fireworks will light the sky over the Old Orchard Beach pier. I was there to watch the past two Thursdays, and today it feels as if I am going through a bit of withdrawal.

I have seen more elaborate fireworks. On Parliament Hill to celebrate Canada Day, at Expo ’67 and at various festivals over the past 50 years. But there is something special about the fireworks at Old Orchard Beach.

It’s not a long show, only about 10 minutes, and calculated (I think) to attract the maximum number of people top the area shops, bars, restaurants and amusements both before and after the show. But there’s something to be said for ending a day at the beach sitting in the sand being assaulted by sound and light. Perhaps not an elaborate show, but definitely one that makes you feel good.